Arrival/Check-In: After a long day of delayed flights, rushed connections and rainy traffic, arriving at The Buenaventura Golf & Beach Resort, An Autograph Collection Hotel felt like stepping into calm. Even though it was after 7 p.m. and still humid, the cool welcome drink was immediately refreshing. Check-in was smooth and friendly; the attendant explained the property and amenities clearly, which made it easy to settle in, take a warm shower and change before dinner.
Guest Quarters: With so many activities and spaces around the resort, you may not spend much time in your room, but the accommodations are comfortable and well-appointed if you do. Villas are available for those seeking more space.
My room opened into a short hallway with the bathroom on the left and closets on the right. The bathroom was generous, featuring both a shower and a tub, and shutters beside the tub that can be opened or closed for privacy.
Inside the bedroom, a king-sized bed was flanked by nightstands and complemented by a bench at the foot of the bed, a dresser, a desk, a couch and a coffee table—plenty of space to relax and organize belongings. Double doors led to a private patio with views over the resort’s pool area.
Services/Amenities: The resort offers a wide range of on-site activities. Options include bike rentals, five oceanfront swimming pools, a fitness trail, paddle boarding, horseback riding, the Buenaventura Zoo, lagoon boat rides, jet skiing, kayaking, sailing, snorkeling, table tennis, tennis, volleyball, a supervised kids club and a 24-hour fitness center. The property is especially family-friendly—the zoo visit and watching lively monkeys interact with guests highlighted that family appeal.
Golf enthusiasts will appreciate the 18-hole, par-72 course designed by Jack Nicklaus. The resort provides golf clinics, including sessions at the Cobra Performance Center, and rental equipment is available. I didn’t book a spa treatment, but I visited Corotu Spa to see the peaceful on-site sanctuary.
Dining choices are numerous. Criollo serves Panamanian cuisine and was my breakfast spot each morning. Tai Kai Sushi & Martini Bar offers a teppanyaki experience, while Asa’o & Pesca’o provides beachfront dining focused on steaks and seafood. Caña Bar & Tapas presents Iberian-inspired dishes in a casual atmosphere, and several other bars and casual eateries round out the options.
At the resort museum I joined an interactive artisan workshop led by a Kuna woman from the indigenous community. I crafted a bracelet during the session, which I still wear—an intimate cultural experience that connected me to the region and enriched my stay.
The property also includes multiple indoor and outdoor venues suited for meetings, weddings and other events.
TOP TAKEAWAYS:
◆ One standout dining memory was a beach barbecue at El Faro Beach Club. The paella, grilled meats and corn were highlights of the meal.
◆ Be sure to try the creative cocktails at Palapa Bar. I sampled several, including a twist on a Manhattan served with coffee-crusted chocolate and a touch of cotton candy.
◆ I enjoyed dinner at Mansa, located within the surrounding Buenaventura beach community. Although it isn’t inside the hotel, the restaurant is part of the neighborhood amenities and worth a visit.
THE BUENAVENTURA GOLF & BEACH RESORT, AN AUTOGRAPH COLLECTION HOTEL
340 Calle 3ra Buenaventura, Rio
Hato, Panama
tel 507 908 3333
thebuenaventurahotel.com